Class InformationThe Characteristics of Life Unit contains information necessary to be successful in all future units.
Biology SkillsEvery unit of biology will require you to create graphs and write evidence-based conclusions. You must acquire the correct skills to create a graph and evidence-based conclusion if you wish to be successful in biology class.
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Characteristics of Life
All living organisms possess common characteristics. These characteristics is how we distinguish if something is alive. An organism MUST contain all of the following characteristics to be considered alive.
OrderAll living organisms are made of a cell or many cells. The cells in each organism is arranged with a specific purpose to allow an organism to function in daily life.
Growth and DevelopmentAll living organisms have genetic material which codes for how organisms grow and develop into adults.
ReproductionAll living organisms must be able to reproduce to continue the population. Even though there is no benefit to the individual be reproducing, the species' population is dependent on reproduction!
Evolutionary AdaptaionAll living organisms possess specific adaptations, or traits, that allow them to be successful in their environment.
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RegulationAll living organisms must maintain homeostasis. All organisms will complete different activities to ensure they maintain homeostasis.
Homeostasis – equilibrium of bodily functions (temperature, pH) Energy ProcessingAll living organisms need energy to perform daily tasks. All organisms process energy from the food they eat.
Response to Environmental StimuliAll living organisms will respond or react to something that occurs in their environment, or environmental stimuli. Organisms that we consider to "never move" will respond to the environment in some capacity. For example, plants will grow towards the light source they need in their environment.
Are viruses alive?Viruses have the capability of wrecking havoc on our bodies, but are they living organisms? Read more about viruses in the Khan's Academy article below.
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Hierarchy of Life
The Hierarchy of Life is how we classify all components of living organisms.